There are many reasons why so many chase a four-year degree, including the perception that without one, you won’t land a good-paying job. While many companies still value these degrees, they are not always a prerequisite for employment.

In fact, there are many high-paying career paths that don’t require a degree.

So, whether you want to work toward a high-demand career as your first major job opportunity or are eager to switch fields to one of the top-paying careers without a degree, with the right training and commitment, programs like Per Scholas can equip you with the skills to succeed.

Why Many High-Paying Jobs Don’t Require a Degree

For years, many were led to believe that without a traditional diploma and years of secondary education, they would not have the option to pursue high-paying jobs. Well, while those with degrees can certainly pursue opportunities, their degrees are not the only golden ticket.

In recent years, there has been considerable discussion about the value of hands-on experience, certifications, and practical skills. Data shows that in 2019, nearly three-quarters of employers used the GPA as a means to filter candidates. By 2023, that dropped to 37%.

Skills-based hiring is becoming increasingly common, opening up new career opportunities for those seeking high-paying jobs they love. Many are taking a hybrid approach, prioritizing learning opportunities through bootcamps, apprenticeships, and even free programs that make high-paying roles more accessible.

Pros of Experiential Learning, Practical Skills, & Certifications

The benefits of experiential learning in terms of career development and success are no longer speculation. Many individuals who have taken a similar route are now in top-paying careers without a degree, making money that was once thought to be reserved for those with a four-year degree.

One of the primary motivations for incorporating more hands-on learning and skill-building opportunities is based on the concept of self-efficacy, which is experience-based and serves as a foundation for success.

These individuals tend to offer enhanced productivity, better adaptation to a real-world work environment, and strong problem-solving skills. When combined with theoretical knowledge and practical applications, these candidates can benefit from the following.

• Faster entry into the workforce
• Lower or no learner debt
• High earning potential in specialized fields
• Clear paths to advancement with continued learning and certifications

High-Paying Tech Careers Without a Degree

Today, many high-paying tech careers are attainable, most of which do not require a four-year degree.

But why?

These roles tend to prioritize demonstrated skills, a strong portfolio, and relevant certification. Some are leveraging online courses or structured boot camps, while others are seeking unique training opportunities and taking the initiative through self-study.

Here are some lucrative tech roles you can enter with targeted training and certifications rather than a bachelor’s degree:

IT Support Specialist

• Median annual salary: $60,340 (with some making over $98,000)
• Estimated job growth: Although the projected decline for computer support specialists is 3%, an average of 50,500 openings is expected each year over the decade

Within this role, specialists provide technical assistance and troubleshoot computer issues. Many begin with a high school diploma and seek relevant information technology (IT) certifications. Today, most organizations are prioritizing hands-on experience, technical skills, and certifications, such as CompTIA A+.

Consider enrolling in IT expert training to boost your skills.

Data Analyst

• Median annual salary: $84,569 (with some making over $138,000)
• Estimated job growth: 21% from 2024 to 2034 (may depend on the specialization of the data analyst role

Data analysts collect, process, and analyze data to guide business decisions. While it was once the norm to seek out those with a bachelor’s degree, many employers are now focusing on relevant experience, data analytics certificates, and apprenticeships. While you complete professional certificates and develop your skills, you can also benefit from networking with others in the field.

Explore data analyst courses to get started.

Cybersecurity Specialist

• Median annual salary: $106,883 (with some making over $172,000)
• Estimated job growth: 29% from 2024 to 2034 (may depend on the specialization of the cybersecurity role)

Conduct risk analyses, install and maintain security tools, and develop preventive strategies to protect systems and networks from cyber threats. Again, many organizations hire candidates based on their experience and certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, as well as those willing to complete boot camps and other programs to fill skill gaps.

Learn through cybersecurity specialist training.

Ethical Hacker

• Median annual salary: $107,000 (with some making over $190,000)
• Estimated job growth: Up to 28% by 2026

As cybersecurity professionals, these individuals identify and fix security vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. This specialized role is part of a larger strategy to strengthen an organization’s security posture. From security audits to penetration testing, this multi-step process helps address the surge in cybersecurity threats, which is why it’s a high-demand, high-paying role.

Consider ethical hacking programs for this high-demand path.

How to Get Started in a High-Paying Career Without a Degree

Interested in kickstarting a high-paying career without the process of completing a traditional degree?

Breaking into a field that you’re passionate about will involve:

• Focused training
• Portfolio-building
• Strategic networking

There is work involved — it just differs from a four-year degree. For many, completing short-term programs and certifications prepares them to start their careers and earn lucrative base pay from day one. Remember:

• Start accumulating certifications and real-world experience to accelerate your hiring process
  • The same applies when aiming to advance within that career
• Stay informed about industry trends and the latest certification opportunities
• Keep your eyes open for available resources, focusing on the industry in which you want to build your career
  • e.g., For a career in IT, read How to Start Your IT Career: A 7 Step Guide
  • Explore Per Scholas training programs for industry-recognized skills and certifications
• Discover the importance of upskilling in maintaining competitiveness

Taking the First Step Toward a High-Paying Career

Don’t get stuck in a mindset that discourages you from seeking a high-growth, high-paying job. There are many jobs accessible without a degree when you focus on in-demand skills and continuous learning. Seize the opportunities presented and continually set new goals.

Choose a path aligned with your strengths — start with Per Scholas training programs to quickly gain job-ready skills.

Learn more about unlocking your potential. Also, enjoy these Per Scholas blogs:

• 30 Years of Tech Innovation, 30 Years of Impact: How Per Scholas and the Industry Transformed Together
• Smart Money Moves: Advice from a CFO for Career Changers
• Guided by Vision: The Leaders Empowering Tech’s Next Generation

They say being a mom is the best job in the world. However, this role doesn’t come with a paycheck and won’t pay the bills! Imagine earning an income on the side while still being there for every school drop-off and bedtime story.

Now, more than ever, there’s an increasing number of flexible and high-paying roles for stay-at-home moms. By choosing the right one, you can earn cash while still managing childcare, home, and other responsibilities.

Learn more about jobs for stay-at-home moms below, where to find the best opportunities, and how Per Scholas can help you gain the skills you need:

Why Flexible & High-Paying Jobs are Ideal for Stay-at-Home Moms

Flexible jobs — where you get a say in when, how, and where you work — are a total game-changer for a stay-at-home mom. These positions enable you to earn an income without compromising any aspect of your family life. You can set your own schedule, grow at your own pace, and use the skills you’ve already developed, either in a previous job or as a mother. Many of these mom-friendly jobs offer high salaries, allowing you to significantly increase your household income.

Remote jobs are the ultimate flexible jobs. They can provide stability and competitive pay without you missing those all-important family moments, whether that’s your child’s first day of school or first PTA meeting. In September 2024, 27% of working mothers were working from home.

Key Benefits

Advantages of flexible, high-paying jobs include:

• A quick entry or re-entry point into the workplace
• Career paths that offer professional growth, especially if you continue to learn and earn certifications
• Access to national and international job opportunities
• Long-term financial independence
• Better work-life balance
• Much more control over your schedule, resulting in higher job satisfaction
• And more

Best Flexible & High-Paying Jobs

Some of the most flexible and high-paying roles are in the IT sector, which is currently experiencing a skills shortage. That means there’s currently a surplus of jobs in this field that you can do while being a stay-at-home mom, opening up the door for a brand-new career.

To get one of these roles, you first need to unlock your potential. Per Scholas can help.

For 30 years, we’ve been creating opportunities through no-cost technical training and employer connections, preparing our learners for the ever-growing needs of the IT and tech sectors. By gaining the right industry-recognized skills, you can get a job that not only pays well, but also gives you the flexibility to balance work and family life just how you like.

Per Scholas offers industry-recognized courses in a wide range of IT areas, including data analysis, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. These provide moms like you with the skills that employers value, increasing your chances of a rewarding and lucrative career.

Here are some pathways for a stay-at-home mom to make money:

IT Support & Systems

If you enjoy solving problems and helping people overcome technological challenges, a career in IT support and systems training might be a good fit. You’ll assist users with software, hardware, networks, and other IT infrastructure, ensuring that their technology functions as intended. The great thing about working in IT support and systems is that you can do it from almost anywhere, giving you the flexibility you need as a full-time mom.

Per Scholas offers various courses that can help you pursue this career path, including:

• CompTIA A+ (Computing Technology Industry Association)
• Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Both allow you to develop foundational skills in IT systems, enabling you to troubleshoot issues and assist end users. After completing one of these courses, you might want to specialize in entry-level IT support or get a remote help desk role.

Cybersecurity

The internet can be a dangerous place, and companies need skilled professionals to keep their systems and data safe from hackers and other bad actors. Becoming a cybersecurity specialist means you can protect these organizations from the latest threats while earning a good salary.

Cybersecurity skills have never been in so much demand, and there’s a good chance you can find a flexible or remote position that suits your lifestyle and schedule. For instance, you could work as a cybersecurity analyst on a part-time basis from home.

To embark on a career in cybersecurity, consider a course such as CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA CySA+, which are both available through Per Scholas.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing skills are also in high demand among employers, so you might want to pursue a career in this field. By earning a certification like AWS (Amazon Web Services) Certified Cloud Practitioner, available through Per Scholas, you can learn to manage and deploy cloud-based solutions and support the people who use this technology.

Working in cloud computing offers the opportunity to build a new career while still caring for your family. Numerous at-home jobs, such as cloud security analysts and engineers, offer flexible hours based on your schedule.

Data Analytics

Do you enjoy collecting, analyzing, and interpreting different types of data? If so, a role in data analytics might be what you’re looking for. This job is perfect for stay-at-home moms because it often offers remote work and flexible hours. That means you can help businesses make better data-driven decisions all from the comfort of your home.

There are various data engineering programs that can help you gain the skills needed for a data analytics job, such as Per Scholas’ course. You’ll learn how to extract valuable insights from data, a skill that can potentially lead to a high-paying and satisfying career. Alternatively, you may want to pursue a certification like Splunk Core Certified Power User, which provides the expertise necessary for more advanced data analysis roles.

Software Engineering

Software engineering is a branch of computer science that involves creating and maintaining apps and systems to meet user needs. If that sounds like something you’d love to do, consider enrolling in a software engineering training course at Per Scholas. You’ll learn about:

• Data structures and algorithms
• Frontend and backend frameworks
• And more

After completing this course, you’ll increase your chances of landing a dream role in the world of software engineering, which is known for its high salaries and job satisfaction. Many employers in this sub-sector allow work-from-home.

These are just some part-time jobs for mothers at home, and there are plenty of flexible and remote roles available right now. By earning a certification from Per Scholas, you can prepare yourself for a new chapter in your career. Plus, with continuous upskilling, you may be able to get even higher-paying roles.

Skills & Tools to Succeed in Flexible Jobs for Stay-at-Home Moms

To increase your chances of landing and retaining a flexible or remote role, you’ll want to expand your skill set and become comfortable with various tools. The good news is that you don’t need an expensive degree to get started. You can become more attractive to employers through self-study or online courses, such as those offered by Per Scholas.

Here are some of the most valuable skills and tools to focus on:

Time Management & Self-Discipline

• Create a schedule: Setting a daily or weekly schedule helps you prioritize tasks and balance work responsibilities with family life
• Minimize distractions: You can become more productive by turning off your phone’s notifications, avoiding social media, and removing other distractions that zap up your precious time

Proficiency in Communication Tools

• Video conferencing tools: It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and other platforms, as many employers use these tools for interviews and meetings
• Communication tools: Learn how to utilize Slack, Discord, and other messaging platforms to stay connected with your colleagues and maintain a clear workflow

Knowledge of Productivity Suites

• Microsoft Office: Knowing how to use the Microsoft Office suite is a great skill, as it allows you to create documents and spreadsheets
• Google Workspace: Learning Google Workspace is valuable for many jobs. It allows you to collaborate on documents in real time

Familiarity With Project Management Tools

• Trello: You can use Trello to organize different tasks and manage projects in one place — essential skills for a flexible or remote role
• Asana: This is another project management tool that you may want to learn. Doing so can help you manage tasks and stay ahead of important deadlines

Commitment to Continuous Learning

• Take online courses: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy can enhance your skill set and make you more competitive. It also demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning, which many employers value
• Per Scholas courses: We offer courses that can help you grow your career
  • For example, our cybersecurity specialist training and ethical hacking programs provide hands-on experience, preparing you for high-demand tech roles

Where to Find Legitimate High-Paying Jobs for Stay-at-Home Moms

Here are some trustworthy websites that post remote and other flexible jobs that you can do as a stay-at-home mom. Applying for roles through these websites can reduce the risk of job scams.

• HireBasis: This platform lists remote job opportunities across various industries, including IT. You can filter roles based on your location, experience, availability, and other factors
• The Mom Project: The Mom Project is a nonprofit job platform that helps women stay active in the workforce. You’ll need to register for an account before you can find jobs. However, once you’ve completed your profile, you can find various flexible roles based on your skills and expertise
• Hire My Mom: This job board contains legitimate job listings for a wide range of roles, including IT, administration, and customer support
• Upwork: One of the world’s leading freelancing websites, Upwork, is a place where remote workers connect with employers, potentially leading to high-paying opportunities. You’ll find various projects advertised, giving you the chance to find work that suits your lifestyle and schedule

Avoiding Work-from-Home Scams

Unfortunately, high-paying jobs for stay-at-home moms aren’t always the real deal. You can identify and avoid fake job listings by researching companies, using trusted job websites, and taking other proactive steps.

• Be Wary of Upfront Payments: A real employer would never ask you for money to process a job application or provide training. If this happens, the role is probably a scam, and you should report it to the website where you found the job
• Research the Company: Always verify a company before applying for a role. You can do this by checking the company’s official website and confirming their contact details. You can also read reviews about the organization on websites like Glassdoor. A little research can prevent you from becoming the victim of a scam
• Avoid Vague or ‘Too Good to Be True’ Job Descriptions: Job listings should include clear role descriptions and a realistic salary range based on the type of position and industry standards. If a job sounds vague or too good to be true, it could be a scam
• Use Trusted Platforms for Mom-Friendly Jobs: Legitimate job websites and professional networks screen companies before posting job listings, reducing the risk of scams. These websites include LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter. Other websites, like The Work-at-Home Moms’ Club, teach you how to make money as a stay-at-home mom

Taking the First Step Toward a Flexible Career

Pursuing a flexible, high-paying job as a stay-at-home mom helps you earn a steady income while balancing the responsibilities of day-to-day family life. If this is something you’re interested in, consider entering the IT sector, which currently offers numerous opportunities due to a skills shortage.

For a more fulfilling career, choose an IT role that aligns with your skills, interests, and home schedule. For example, you might want to work as a part-time remote data analyst, which lets you leverage your analytical skills while still being present for your family.

Wherever you want to go in your career, Per Scholas’ training programs can help. You’ll be able to gain the technical skills, experience, and certifications required for high-paying and flexible jobs for stay-at-home moms without the expensive price tag.

Contact our admissions team now to learn more.

Houston, T.X., September 15, 2025  – Since launching in 2023, the Per Scholas Houston campus has trained more than 250 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and IT Support. Our alumni have earned jobs at employers including AT&T, IRISNDT, Buchanan Technologies, Titan Technologies, and Preferred Technologies.

“As Houston continues to lead the way in energy innovation, our Power Up: Houston event proved how powerful collaboration can be,” said Per Scholas Houston Managing Director Tondalayo Hall. “By bringing together industry leaders, workforce development experts, and community partners at Capgemini during Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week, we highlighted the incredible potential of a well-rounded, tech-skilled energy workforce. This gathering was more than a conversation. It was a catalyst for the relationships, ideas, and opportunities that will drive our city’s energy future.”

Today, top leaders in the energy, utilities, and technology sectors explored the powerful intersection of innovation and workforce development among industry peers at Power Up: Houston, hosted at Capgemini. Caitlyn Brazill, President, Per Scholas, and  Kenneth Walker, Executive Vice President of Inclusion & Culture, Per Scholas, were in attendance. 

Central to the event was an Industry Expert Panel moderated by Janet Pope, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility & Engagement – Americas Region, Capgemini. Panelists included Bhavani Arabandi, Principal Research Associate – Work, Education & Labor Division, Urban Institute; Bryant Black, Founder, Black Arrow Group; Claire Gauthier, Executive Vice President, Global Energy & Utilities Industry, Capgemini; and Tondalayo Hall, Managing Director, Per Scholas Houston. Carla Walker-Miller, CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Solutions, a featured panelist from Power Up: Detroit, also joined as a featured guest in Houston.

Power Up: Houston was held in collaboration with the Urban Institute, IREC, and CareerEquity. This grant-funded partnership delivers worker-centered training tailored to the energy sector’s IT needs. Per Scholas Houston also extends gratitude to partnerships with Rice Management Company, The Ion, The Herzstein Foundation, Comcast, and The Texas Workforce Commission, without whom our work would not be possible. 

Contact: Rafael Gerena, Vice President of Communications & Policy, Per Scholas

communications@perscholas.org

About Per Scholas                           

As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $35 billion in increased personal earnings. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

This event is part of the Power Up Series that was created by Per Scholas and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). DOL makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. The total cost of the Power IT project is $5,815,899. $5,000,000 (86 percent) is funded through the Building Pathways to Infrastructure Jobs Grant Program of the U.S. Department of Labor–Employment and Training Administration. The other $815,899 (14 percent) is funded through nonfederal resources.

BRONX, N.Y. (September 11, 2025)—Today, Per Scholas, the leading national tech training nonprofit, welcomes new National Board Member Steve Rullo. 

Steve Rullo, Chief Digital and Technology Officer, Guardian. 

Steve leads Guardian’s digital transformation and technology strategy to support long-term growth. He brings over 30 years of experience across digital, technology, and financial services, including senior leadership roles at Great-West Lifeco and GE. Steve also co-founded a consulting firm and held senior roles at Cigna Healthcare and a tech start-up. He holds a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

“It’s a privilege to join an organization that’s making a real difference in communities across the country through tech education and career access,” said Rullo. “I’m inspired by the Per Scholas’ commitment to inclusive innovation and look forward to supporting its efforts to build a more dynamic tech workforce.”

“We are honored to welcome Steve to Per Scholas’ National Board, where his dedication, expertise, and enthusiasm will greatly contribute to our mission of unlocking potential,” stated Plinio Ayala, CEO of Per Scholas. “Our National Board Members exemplify our vision to further change the face of technology to achieve a strong economy for all.”

To learn more about Per Scholas’s work and our National Board, visit PerScholas.org. 

About Per Scholas

For nearly 30 years, Per Scholas has been on a mission to drive equity and opportunity in the ever-advancing technology landscape by unlocking the untapped potential of individuals, uplifting communities, and meeting the needs of employers through rigorous tech training. By teaming up with dynamic employer partners, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we’re forging inclusive tech talent pipelines, fulfilling an ever-increasing need for skilled talent. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and counting, Per Scholas offers no-cost training programs in the most sought-after tech skills, spanning Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, 25,000+ individuals have been trained through Per Scholas, propelling their professional trajectories into high-growth tech careers with salaries three times higher than their pre-training earnings. At Per Scholas, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging aren’t just buzzwords—they’re in our DNA. 85+ percent of our learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

# # #

New Board Members to Guide Growth as Local Campus Responds to Urgent Workforce Needs

St. Louis, MO — September 4, 2025 – Per Scholas St. Louis is announcing the launch of its inaugural Advisory Board on September 24, 2025, comprised of leading business and community executives dedicated to advancing tech talent and economic mobility across the region. At the same time, the campus is introducing new training tracks in Healthcare IT and Data Center to meet rising employer demand and provide more pathways into high-growth technology careers.

Advisory Board members include:

• Matt Modica, Vice President & CISO, BJC HealthCare
• Ashley Pyle, Chief Experience Officer, GadellNet
• Marc Ashworth, CISO, First Bank
• Branyea Jones, Training & Development, DEI, Clayco Corp
• April Lopinot, Chief People Officer, Keeley Companies
• Kendall Norris, Chief Winning In Life Officer, Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation

“Per Scholas is honored to welcome such an accomplished group of leaders to our St. Louis Advisory Board,” said Kiesha Mabry Haymore, Managing Director of Per Scholas St. Louis. “Their expertise and commitment will ensure that our campus not only equips learners with the in-demand skills needed to succeed in tech, but also strengthens pathways for local residents to thrive in industries vital to the region’s future, from healthcare to data infrastructure.”

The announcement comes at a critical moment for the region’s workforce. With recent headlines highlighting the closure of the St. Louis Job Corps Center and the resulting disruption for students, Per Scholas St. Louis offers a no-cost, proven alternative for residents seeking tech career training.

“Our work goes beyond the classroom—it’s about connecting talent to opportunity. By launching this Advisory Board and linking learners with top employers, we’re building stronger bridges to economic mobility,” stated Steve Martak, Per Scholas St. Louis’ Director of Talent Solutions.

Since opening in 2022, Per Scholas St. Louis has enrolled 368 learners in IT Support, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering, preparing them for thriving careers with top regional employers. The new Healthcare IT and Data Center tracks will expand opportunities for learners while strengthening talent pipelines for local companies in critical industries.

About Per Scholas

As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

As the 2025 NFL season kicks off with the Philadelphia Eagles facing the Dallas Cowboys, Per Scholas is proud to celebrate our ongoing partnership with the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative and the impact they have had on these cities and 22 other communities nationwide! 

Since first partnering in 2021, thanks to the NFL Foundation, the NFL has supported thousands of Per Scholas learners launch careers in technology.

In 2024, the NFL provided catalytic support to expand Per Scholas’ national footprint and bring our life-changing programming to learners in two more proud NFL cities – Kansas City and Buffalo – where the Foundation is recognized as a Founding Partner.

Per Scholas is deeply grateful to the NFL for opening doors to economic mobility for thousands of learners nationwide. As the 2025 NFL season starts and fans in Philadelphia and Dallas cheer on their teams, we’re celebrating the wins happening off the field for our learners and alumni.

Per Scholas is proud to announce the appointment of Karla Benson Rutten as Regional Senior Vice President, Midwest, along with Laura Chavez as Managing Director of Per Scholas Detroit and Sharise Erby as Managing Director of Per Scholas Phoenix. These accomplished leaders bring decades of experience in nonprofit management, workforce development, and community engagement, advancing Per Scholas’s mission to expand access to no-cost tech training and career pathways.

Karla Benson Rutten – Regional Senior Vice President, Midwest
Karla Benson Rutten leads Per Scholas’ Midwest region, overseeing strategy and operations across seven campuses in Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Detroit, Indianapolis, Kansas City, and St. Louis. She guides cross-functional teams that deliver no-cost technology training, professional development, and job attainment support, connecting Per Scholas Technologists with high-growth tech careers.

Prior to joining Per Scholas, Karla held leadership roles across nonprofit organizations and higher education, including Executive Director of the Jeremiah Program in St. Paul, Vice President of Community Engagement at Girl Scouts River Valleys, and 15 years at Macalester College directing the Lealtad-Suzuki Center. She is the founder of Benson Rutten Innovations, a consulting firm focused on leadership development and DEI strategy. Karla holds a Master’s in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Iowa State University. Her work is driven by a passion for equity, personal growth, and helping individuals create lasting impact in their communities.

Laura Chavez (She/Her) – Managing Director, Detroit
Laura Chavez serves as the Managing Director of Per Scholas Detroit, where she oversees the strategic direction and daily operations of the campus. She leads local partnerships, program implementation, and learner support, ensuring access to tech career pathways across the region.

With more than ten years in nonprofit leadership, Laura has developed programs and partnerships that meet the needs of historically underrepresented communities. Raised in Southwest Detroit, she brings a deep understanding of her community and remains actively engaged in mentoring emerging leaders and advocating for equitable economic opportunities. Laura holds a degree in Public Policy, and her leadership reflects a commitment to dignity, inclusion, and meaningful impact.

Sharise Erby (She/Her) – Managing Director, Phoenix
Sharise Erby leads Per Scholas Phoenix, overseeing campus strategy, operations, and engagement with learners, staff, and community and employer partners. Her work focuses on closing the opportunity gap and creating pathways to high-growth tech careers.

Sharise brings over 30 years of experience spanning healthcare, workforce development, and nonprofit leadership. She spent two decades in healthcare operations serving underserved communities and has spent the last 15 years leading initiatives in economic empowerment, financial literacy, and small business growth. Sharise is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and holds a Master’s in Health Administration. Recognized with awards such as the City of Phoenix MLK “Living the Dream” Award and the Titan 100 Top CEO distinction, she also serves as a Commissioner on the Phoenix Women’s Commission. A best-selling author and global speaker, Sharise inspires others to lead with purpose and embrace transformation as a tool for growth.

Looking Ahead
Karla, Laura, and Sharise join Per Scholas at an exciting time as we continue to expand our impact and create equitable pathways into the technology sector. Their leadership, expertise, and dedication will be invaluable as we help learners build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in tech careers. 

Forbes recently featured the powerful impact of Per Scholas’ partnership with TEKsystems, showcasing how together we’ve built a thriving, work-ready talent pipeline over the past decade. What began as a shared commitment to look beyond traditional hiring practices has grown into a national collaboration that prioritizes skills, potential, and continuous learning. 

Since 2015, TEKsystems and Per Scholas have co-designed rigorous, hands-on training programs in 12 U.S. cities, preparing individuals for in-demand technology roles and launching more than 1,500 careers. This partnership not only helps TEKsystems meet customer needs with job-ready talent but also expands access to life-changing tech careers for individuals historically excluded from the industry. As Forbes highlights, the results are clear: when employers invest in human potential, entire communities benefit.

Read the full feature here.

Detroit, M.I., August 18, 2025  – Since launching in 2019, the Per Scholas Detroit campus has trained more than 450 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and IT Support. Our alumni have earned jobs at employers including IC Data Communications, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Stefanini Group, TEKsystems, and Zentro Internet. 

“Detroit’s tech future is being built right now, and it’s being built by the skilled talent from our own communities,” says Laura Chavez, Managing Director of Per Scholas Detroit. “Power Up: Detroit is more than a convening; it’s a movement uniting industry leaders who believe in investing in local brilliance to power our energy and innovation economy.”

Today, top leaders in the energy, utilities, and technology sectors explored the powerful intersection of innovation and workforce development among industry peers at Power Up: Detroit, hosted at Newlab within Michigan Central. Brittany Murrey, Executive Vice President of Talent Solutions and Per Scholas; Kenneth Walker, Executive Vice President of Inclusion & Culture, Per Scholas were in attendance. 

The morning began with an Executive Breakfast, open to Director+ leaders. A Fireside Chat featuring Carla Walker-Miller, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Walker-Miller Energy Solutions, and Paul Douglas, President of The JPI Group, followed. The event concluded with an Industry Expert Panel moderated by Ron Stefanski, Host of DisruptEd. Panelists included Clarinda Barnett Harrison, Director of Talent Development and Programming, Michigan Central; Susan Biszewski-Eber, Senior Manager of Apprenticeship Programs, Interstate Renewable Energy Council; Paul Douglas, President at The JPI Group; and Laura Chavez, Managing Director at Per Scholas Detroit.

Per Scholas Detroit hosted Power Up: Detroit in collaboration with the Urban Institute, IREC, and CareerEquity. This grant-funded partnership delivers worker-centered training tailored to the energy sector’s IT needs.

Contact: Rafael Gerena, Vice President of Communications & Policy, Per Scholas

rgerena@perscholas.org 

About Per Scholas                           

As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

This event is part of the Power Up Series that was created by Per Scholas and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). DOL makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. The total cost of the Power IT project is $5,815,899. $5,000,000 (86 percent) is funded through the Building Pathways to Infrastructure Jobs Grant Program of the U.S. Department of Labor–Employment and Training Administration. The other $815,899 (14 percent) is funded through nonfederal resources.

During the last 30 years, we’ve seen technology develop into an unstoppable force that influences how we live, work, and communicate.

In 1995, dial-up internet and floppy disks were gaining popularity, while mobile phones were in their infancy. Fast forward to today, and we manage nearly every aspect of our lives on mobile devices, while cloud computing and AI have become ubiquitous.

Per Scholas has also experienced a remarkable journey in the last three decades, evolving alongside the technology it champions to create a more inclusive and representative industry.

Here are some of the events and people that have shaped the history of technology from 1995 to 2025.

1. 2000 – Dot-Com Bubble Bursts, But Tech Doesn’t Die

In 1995, just 0.7% of the global population used the internet. In 2025, that number stands at 68%. However, that journey hasn’t always been smooth, with the dot-com boom and subsequent bust being a prime example.

In the late 1990s, investment in internet startups created a frenzy on the stock markets, but this was short-lived, with billions of dollars in market value wiped out in the year 2000.

The dot-com crash exposed inequalities in who exactly benefited in the technology economy, with entrepreneurs and investors walking away with vast fortunes at the expense of those with little market knowledge. However, the event also opened the door for people to rethink how technology is built and by whom.

Recognizing skills gaps in technology, Per Scholas doubled down on workforce training in 2020, providing skills and knowledge that help learners thrive in the modern world.

2. 2011 – Kimberly Bryant Founds Black Girls CODE

While Black people make up 13% of the U.S. population, they represent just 7% of the computing workforce.

After her daughter expressed an interest in computer programming, Kimberly Bryant started Black Girls Code in 2011, a nonprofit that empowers girls of color through coding education and technological engagement.

Per Scholas also creates access for those traditionally left out of tech. We offer no-cost training, certifications, and job attainment assistance, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams.  

3. 2018 – Timnit Gebru Co-Authors Groundbreaking Work on AI Bias

In 2018, Timnit Gebru, a leader in AI ethics research, co-authored a paper that showed facial recognition is less reliable when identifying some individuals, which could lead to discrimination.

Also around this time, Per Scholas led efforts to prepare learners for AI and its potential downsides. We started training AI learners to lead, not just follow — a philosophy that also extends into other technologies, such as the cloud and cybersecurity.

4. 2020 – The Pandemic Forces the World Online

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a digital divide between those with reliable internet access and technology skills and those without became remarkably apparent.

Shortly after the start of the pandemic, Per Scholas pivoted to remote training, ensuring continuity for our learners during one of the most significant events in modern history. Former alum Kevin Rappe, now Systems Engineer at Cetrom Information Technology, Inc., says:

“[Per Scholas helped us get] as hands-on as possible over remote learning. They did a really impressive job, and it worked very well.”

5. 2025 – Per Scholas Hits 30 Years, with More Than 30K Trained and Counting

Per Scholas is proud to celebrate 30 years, and we honored this historic milestone by ringing the Nasdaq Closing Bell back in February.

Since 1995, we’ve made a massive effort to diversify tech for everyone, which continues to be our driving force. Former alum Jadah Stone, now an IT Support Specialist at Casper, says:

“Per Scholas provided really amazing resources for people that might not have otherwise been able to have an opportunity like this.”

The Per Scholas Journey: 1995-2025

Here’s a timeline of some of our most important milestones:

• 1995: Per Scholas starts in the South Bronx. Our mission? To bridge the digital divide.
• 2000s: At the dawn of the new millennium, Per Scholas expands into tech training. 
• 2010s: We expand nationally and start partnering with leading tech companies.
• 2020s: We adopt a more responsive, future-focused curriculum that tackles AI, cybersecurity, the cloud, IT workforce development, and other emerging technologies.
• 2025: Our alumni are now working at Microsoft, Google, JPMorgan Chase, TEKsystems, Cognizant, and other leading tech companies.

Per Scholas Alumni Success Stories

Various individuals have shaped the tech landscape — and Per Scholas alumni are part of that story.

Here are some quotes from those who have unlocked their potential through our no-cost technology training and access to careers in tech without a degree:

• “Per Scholas has completely changed my entire life. That little 8-year-old girl who was at one point homeless is now breaking barriers in the tech industry.” – Deja Craft, Computer Systems Engineer
• “It’s amazing to see what Per Scholas does for people. Essentially, bringing them from knowing nothing about tech or hardware or software, and preparing them to be able to enter the industry.” – Steven Reyes, Helpdesk Technician at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
• “Now I have options. I have people calling me about jobs. I have ample opportunity for growth. I am eternally grateful for this experience.” – Nico Castro-Arrien, Business Operations Support Analyst

Building the Next 30 Years

Despite changing the tech landscape, Per Scholas is on the path to successfully training individuals for thriving careers. The obstacles we currently face include access to technology, representation in the workplace, and rapid changes in the sector that might leave some communities behind.

Per Scholas is preparing for these challenges by constantly evolving. Our career accelerators, simulation-based training, and AI skilling are helping to build a more inclusive tech workforce.

Partner with us by becoming a donor and being part of our evolution. You can help build a more equitable tech workforce for the next 30 years!